3 Answers from Attorneys

Generally speaking, one cannot protect a trademark for the title of a single creative work, such as an song or book. But they can protect it for what we call "serial works" Batman, Harry Potter, etc.

There are probably a number of registrations for marks that use those terms, but you will need to conduct the proper due diligence or run the risk of infringement (see this link for a detailed explanation of this process: http://www.lanternlegal.com/trademark_due_diligence.php

If you would like to discuss further over a free phone consult, feel free to contact me anytime that is convenient.

As discussed above, context is very important here. Are you categorically prohibited from using the term FOR DUMMIES in a title of book? No. But a trademark search for the term, couple with analysis of the greater context of your book and its message and title are needed to correctly determine if you will be in any legal hot water for using this term.

If you'd like to further discuss visit my website or contact me at 310-751-0181.